Question NW2094 to the Minister of Basic Education

Reply:

(a)

South Africa’s G20 Presidency of the Education Working Group is focused on the theme: “Educational Professionals for Solidarity, Equality and Sustainable Development”. This will provide an opportunity for G20 members to share best practices and lessons to improve education systems, with a particular focus on three priority areas:

• Quality Foundational Learning;
• Mutual Recognition of Qualifications in a Global Context; and
• Professional Development for Educators in a Changing World.

South Africa seeks to lead the G20 Education Agenda with a broad, full lifecycle approach, emphasising both foundational education and lifelong learning. This perspective aims to build a strong foundation for people to acquire the skills and competencies required to pursue higher education and work opportunities and lead a life that they value.

(b)

The process of setting the agenda for the G20 Education Working Group has been informed by a careful consideration of South Africa’s domestic challenges, as well as broader continental priorities. South Africa assumes the presidency during the African Union’s 2024 Year of Education, which focuses on “Educate an African Fit for the 21st Century: Building Resilient Education Systems for Increased Access to Inclusive, Lifelong, Quality, and Relevant Learning in Africa”. This alignment provides a unique opportunity to reflect on the progress made and the challenges remaining in building resilient and adaptable education systems.

South Africa is working closely with the African Union to ensure that the discussions within the G20 reflect the priorities of the African continent and, more broadly, the needs of developing nations. The G20 platform offers a crucial opportunity to elevate the voices of these nations, ensuring that their perspectives are prioritised as we collectively work towards education systems that are inclusive, sustainable, resilient and enablers of quality outcomes.